Mosquito Prevention: The 4 Signals Mosquitoes Use

During the spring and summer in Knoxville TN, mosquitoes can feel impossible to avoid. We’re here to tell you that this doesn’t have to be the case! Mosquitoes, for the most part, are simple creatures that base their decisions on a small set of external stimuli. Learning more about what mosquitoes are attracted to and how they find people to bite will help you avoid them while spending time outside. If you’re ready to learn the secrets to mosquito prevention, read on for advice from our mosquito exterminators at Russell’s Pest Control!

4 Signals Mosquitoes Use to Find People

Although some people are documented “mosquito magnets,” there is still no scientific consensus on the exact genetic factors that make some people predisposed to greater risk of mosquito bites. However, we do know some signs that all humans exhibit that mosquitoes are attracted to. Here are the 4 main signals we give off to mosquitoes:

1. Breath: When we exhale, we release carbon dioxide into the air that mosquitoes pick up on to determine if there are any humans around.
2. Body odor: Mosquitoes can smell our natural body odor quite keenly, and this odor is amplified when we perspire. Wearing floral perfumes can also attract mosquitoes looking for nectar. Instead, they’ll stumble upon a potential host!
3. Body temperature: Mosquitoes can pick up on our body heat to find us. Wearing dark clothing traps this heat in and makes it easier for mosquitoes to find us.
4. Color: All human skin gives off longer wavelengths of light that mosquitoes find attractive. Leaving exposed skin is a sure way to attract mosquitoes.

Preventing Mosquito Bites in Knoxville TN

We can’t avoid sweating or exhaling carbon dioxide, but we can make efforts to block the signals that we give off to mosquitoes, as well as discourage them from living around our properties. Here are a few ways to keep your mosquito exposure to a minimum:

• Clear out standing water in your yard: Mosquitoes breed around and lay their eggs on standing water, which can collect in planters, buckets, tarps, gutters, and more places. Pour it out or cover it wherever you find it.
• Wear covering clothing: Leaving lots of exposed skin will make you more susceptible to mosquito bites. Although it can be hotter in the summer, choosing light colors and long sleeves will deter mosquitoes.
• Use a safe insect repellent: EPA-approved bug sprays using either DEET or picaridin can reduce your risk of attracting mosquitoes. If you’re looking for an all-natural alternative, try citronella oil or lemon eucalyptus oil.

Why Professional Mosquito Control Works

Because mosquitoes spend most of their days in shaded, vegetated areas, you could be hosting a booming mosquito population without ever finding out where they’re hiding. Let the mosquito experts at Russell’s Pest Control assess your situation! We can send a technician out to perform a property-wide inspection, determining all problem areas and drafting the best possible barrier spray plan for your yard. For a free quote or to learn more, contact us today!